Recently we added a new feature to our teachers' computers. Our school system purchased eyeTV which connects our cable to our teachers' desktop computers, so they can air TV programs on their Smart Boards or project the TV through their mounted projectors. This has rid our classrooms of old, clunky televisions from the 1980s which is great news to our teachers.
The actual gadget looks like a USB flash drive with a co-axle cable connector on the other end. It works well because it is so easy to use. The only "problem" that we have experienced so far is that the device is a bit bulky and bumps into other USB devices that are plugged into the computer's ports. Also, since it is a USB connection, and it remains plugged in all the time, it reduces the number of available ports for teachers to use on their computers.
This now serves as our video distribution system. Channels 3 and 4 can be utilized to show in-house productions, videos, or DVDs. This year, our book fair video will be played in a continuous loop all day, so teachers can tune in and share the promotional video with students. Teachers can use this to show student and teacher made iMovies, PowerPoint Presentations, and booktalks.
A benefit to eyeTV is the recording capability. Programs can be recorded quite simply with the software and hardware provided. The recordings are in digital format, so storage is simple. Installing the devices was almost flawless because if one can attach a USB device to a computer port, one could easily install eveTV.
Teachers are allowed a good deal of latitude in regard to what and when to use the video distribution system. Teachers can sign up in the Media Center for their team/subject/grade level to show a movie over the system. It should be planned 48 hours in advance and in lessons plans. If a motion picture, it must be approved by our principal, must be included in lesson plans, and should relate to specific standard. We only show G and PG. In 8th grade a PG-13 movie may be shown but parent permission must be obtained in writing ahead of time.
Georgia Public Broadcasting probably offers more than our teachers realize. The 8th grade social studies teachers use it often because of its standards based content contained in Georgia Stories. We use several of the teaching guides provided as well as the broadcasts that they provide. Teachers request shows to be taped and then shown when requested (within copyright guidelines). Also, teachers use the GPB website as a resource.
Video distribution has improved greatly in our middle school in the past five years. New teachers might not realize how much easier to use this system has become, but those seasoned veterans remember the nightmares that video distribution could cause back in the old days.
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Yes, I remember the difficulty of showing a video. When I first started teaching we had to actually check-out a tv and vcr. My how things have changed.
ReplyDeleteWow! I thought our system was easy to show videos through our LCD and whiteboard. But yours sounds much easier. Just a USB. That would be incredible. Our system uses of the the prong ports that have to be screwed in then we have to be sure our wireless network has connected to the computer. I have found that many of our teachers are frustrated with the process so they just don't use it. Very sad of course for the students are the ones missing out.
I have never heard of eyeTV before, but it has sparked my interest. Years ago, I always wanted to show my students the cartoon, Liberty’s Kids (from PBS), but I had to get out a VCR and try to record the exact episode I wanted. It was quite a hassle and not the best picture, so 2 years ago I broke down and purchased the DVDs. I have so many questions about this eyeTV though! Can teachers choose what to record and record it themselves or does the teacher tell the LMS what to record? Is it like recording on a DVR at home? Does each teacher have one of the USB ports or do teachers check it out on the day they want to watch the recording? I browsed the website and it they have many neat products, for home and school. Thanks for the new info!
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, I do not think that many teachers in my school know much about the GPB website. Several have used United Streaming for various classes but not much of anything else from the site. Recently, the 8th grade gifted teacher used United Streaming to show MLK Jr's speech to her classes before they delivered their own speeches. I have personally used United Streaming and the Georgia Stories with my classes. The Georgia Stories was helpful when I taught Georgia history; the students needed concrete examples of things from the past, and the videos helped. At one of my former schools, we had the Channel 1 news on daily. I enjoyed it, and the kids at least were getting current events on a daily basis. I might have to check into getting Channel 1 for my current school. As you said, most teachers don't even realize how much is at their fingertips with the GPB website. I'll have to investigate further with my media specialist.
ReplyDeleteThe eyeTV sounds interesting. Looking forward, the classroom TVs, VCRs and DVD players are going to break. They are old technology and new methods need to be explored. With the increased capabilities of the PC, LCDs, screens, and write boards, it seems like more and more will be available in the classroom at the teachers control, out of sight of the media specialist. Not good, not bad, just new things to consider.
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